Swedes out to prove that upset was no fluke

LINDSBORG — It’s “prove it” time for the Bethany College football team on Saturday.

A year ago, the Swedes knocked off nationally ranked Tabor, but didn’t win the rest of the season as they finished tied for last in the KCAC.

Last week, the Swedes sent shockwaves throughout the nation by going on the road and stunning then-No. 16 Ottawa, 34-24.

The Swedes hope to prove that it wasn’t a fluke when they host Saint Mary at Anderson Stadium, with kickoff set for 6 p.m.

The Swedes have created a buzz throughout the KCAC as second-year coach Manny Matsakis has unleashed a new wave of talented athletes on the conference during a 2-1 start overall. New quarterback Jake Umphreyville is lighting up the sky, having thrown five touchdown passes in his last six quarters, while diminutive 5-7 freshman Jaasan Ely has brought some wiggle to the running game after the Swedes’ big power backs struggled through the first two weeks.

Saint Mary is the perfect opponent for the Swedes to keep the train rolling right down the track. The Spires are 0-3 on the year, opening KCAC play with a 35-14 loss to nationally ranked Tabor. They are regarded as capable offensively with a strong passing game, but generous on the defensive side as it could be a big night for Umphreyville and Co.

A victory would build momentum for next week when the Swedes hit the road to take on defending KCAC champion Sterling, which scored a big win itself last week with a 36-33 decision over Friends in a matchup of teams that at one time were ranked this year.